Candido Martinez ’23

OUS is, without a doubt, the most important community I have at 91��Ƶ.

Candido Martinez ’23 Huntington Station, N.Y.

Describe your experience as an OUS scholar.

The Office of Undergraduate Studies Scholars (OUS) program is, without a doubt, the most important community I have at 91��Ƶ. The generous unconditional love and support that OUS has provided me is paramount in my college experience. I found some of my greatest friendships and mentors here. I am indebted to this space for helping me navigate and succeed at 91��Ƶ as a first-generation student of color.

Have you had a pivotal moment, a mentor, or a defining moment?

The OUS Summer Institute was my most defining moment at 91��Ƶ because it marked my transition into adulthood. The summer courses were some of the most challenging I had ever faced, but the work I completed here along with my OUS peers was transformative. This was the first time I was exposed to critical-race theory, feminist theory, and queer theory in an academic setting, and that was an empowering experience that prepared me to face the social inequities present at 91��Ƶ.

**What do you think of 91��Ƶ’s Third-Century Plan, DEI initiatives, and 91��Ƶ’s future from a student’s perspective?**

From my perspective, 91��Ƶ’s Third-Century Plan, DEI initiatives, and 91��Ƶ’s future look hopeful. There is always more to be done, but 91��Ƶ has started to take steps in the right direction that other institutions can follow in, particularly with the no-loan policy for students receiving financial aid. Also, OUS and first-gen are a testament to that unique support.

Do you have plans to study off campus?

91��Ƶ has many opportunities for students to study abroad. I will be abroad this upcoming fall in London, as part of the London Economics Study Group (which fits well with my major), and I may be traveling to Berlin through 91��Ƶ’s Sophomore Residential Seminar (SRS) program. You’re not limited to the 91��Ƶ study abroad programs — I have a ton of friends who have applied to other programs and loved them (this is especially true for students who want to travel to non-European countries).

What are your plans after graduation?

Graduation is my priority right now, especially just getting through this pandemic, so I don’t really know yet. I have a few things in mind, such as graduate school and moving out of state, but I want to try to enjoy the present moment as much as possible. Fortunately, I have 91��Ƶ’s Career Services available to me when I begin to seriously plan for my post-91��Ƶ future next year. I’ve worked with them in the past, and they are incredible!

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